So lets get this straight, these are exactly the same tactics as two seasons ago when Benitez was in charge for 10 games. So the results from the preceding 28 games had nothing to do with the final position.
The consensus of Newcastle fans on here at the start of the season was that we would struggle unless we strengthened. Unlike so many on forums I'm happy to admit that I'm no football expert but even someone like me could see that we were weak up front.
The owner of the club is the one who is responsible for authorising payments. He's refused to do it in the last two windows when he was advised by the manager to buy. If he still owns the club in the next one he'll probably refuse to invest again.
It is Ashley's fault. To deny it is simply foolish.
BTW, selling someone to pay for someone else is not investing, it's just juggling the pack. He may try that again but I'm not sure there is anyone in the current squad that other clubs would want to buy, not for Sissoko type money anyway.